About Corneal Disease
Approximately 6% of the blindness in the United States is caused by injuries or disease involving the cornea. A number of disorders can produce damage to the cornea. A few of the most common conditions include:
- Injury - chemical burn or deep cut which results in scar
- Bullous Keratopathy - condition in which the cornea becomes swollen and cloudy
- Corneal Dystrophies - an abnormality or disease in which the cornea becomes cloudy, resulting in decreased vision
In Keratoconus, the cornea becomes progressively more cone-shaped, resulting in distortion and eventual loss of vision. In Fuch’s Dystrophy, the cornea loses its ability to regulate fluid levels within itself. This results in swelling, blurriness, and often pain.
Each patient must be evaluated on an individual basis. Dr. Buzard will thoroughly discuss your condition with you. Together you will decide whether a cornea1 transplant is the correct choice for you.
Special Tests
A complete cornea1 evaluation includes several tests which measure the quality and curvature of your cornea. The Buzard Eye Institute is equipped with the finest instrumentation available in ophthalmology. The photokeratometer is one such instrument. It actually produces a picture of irregularities in the shape of the cornea and is invaluable in a thorough assessment of your eyes.
Since the cornea is only part of the visual system, you will also receive a very thorough eye examination, with special attention paid to the lens and the retina.
The Donor Cornea
In order to perform corneal transplant surgery, it is necessary to have someone offer their corneas after death. This important gift is tremendously appreciated by patients who have had their vision restored by corneal transplant surgery.
Your name will be placed on a list of patients waiting for a cornea1 donation, Dr. Buzard will accept only the highest quality donor corneas for transplantation. Each cornea undergoes extensive testing to assure that it is free of disease. This includes specific testing for infections, hepatitis, and AIDS.
Before the Operation
When your name nears the top of the waning list, you will be notified. It is recommended that you have a complete medical examination performed by your family doctor and have the findings sent to the Buzard Eye Institute. An appointment will be scheduled with a member of the corneal transplant team who will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you might have. You will be asked to supply the telephone numbers for your home, your workplace, and of a relative so that you can be reached immediately when a donor cornea becomes available. Once you have been contacted, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day prior to your operation.
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